King Arthur manuscript in private hands for 700 years goes on sale - for a huge price
CNN • • entertainment
Key Points:
- A rare medieval manuscript featuring early King Arthur and Merlin tales, dating from the 13th or 14th century, is set to be auctioned by Christie’s in July, with an estimated value of up to $2.7 million.
- Known as the Clermont-Tonnerre Grail, the illuminated vellum manuscript contains Old French text from the Lancelot-Grail cycle and includes 126 gold leaf illustrations depicting scenes such as Merlin’s shape-shifting and Arthurian adventures.
- The manuscript has remained in private hands for about 700 years and has never been publicly exhibited or extensively studied, making it a virtually unknown but culturally significant medieval romance.
- Provenance traces back to notable historical figures including a 15th-century knight, a medieval enthusiast, and a 20th-century industrialist decorated for heroism in both World Wars, highlighting its rich ownership history.
- The sale is expected to attract interest from both institutions and private collectors due to the manuscript’s rarity, historical importance, and the enduring appeal of the Arthurian legends.